Troy - Margaret Ann (McCarthy) Leathem passed on July 15, 2015 at home, surrounded by her family. Margaret was a spirited, spirit-filled and spiritual person. From an early age, Margaret pushed the boundaries of life. She loved to learn and explore and her enthusiasm for life was contagious. Whether exploring the great Adirondack Mountains, sunning on the beach in Maine, trekking through Ireland and Scotland, or spending time with family at Cossayuna Lake, Margaret balanced the challenges of her illness with an unbridled curiosity for the world. She was always willing to try new experiences and it was that process of seeking that led her to her calling as a spiritual leader.

A graduate of Catholic Central High School, Siena College and St. Bernard’s School of Theology and Ministry, Margaret lived and shared her spiritual faith and beliefs with others. She was certified as Director of Religious Education and Youth Ministry and held positions in the Albany Roman Catholic Diocese, Sacred Heart, Troy and St. Jude the Apostle, Wynantskill, Our Lady of Victory, Troy and the Watervliet Cluster parishes. Margaret also held the position as Roman Catholic Chaplain at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and later became Russell Sage College Catholic Chaplain. She was also a Rensselaer County Hospice chaplain, a consultant for Persons with Developmental Disabilities for the Office of Evangelization, Catechesis and Family Life of the Diocese of Albany, and a La Leche League leader.

Margaret is survived by her husband of 34 years, Sean Leathem, and her children Daniel (Chelsea) and Katharine. She was the sister of Kathleen (Bob) Barlow, Mary Helen (Roger) Collen and Ann Giguere. She is also survived by her mother in law Claire, brother in law Joe (Mary T), aunt Mary Walsh, and many loving cousins, nieces, nephews and friends. Margaret was predeceased by her parents, Ann Marie and Edward J. McCarthy.

Our family would like to recognize Marge Stockton for her close and continued care over the last few years.
Margaret had many gifts. Her final gift was to donate her body to Albany Medical College, so that others could continue the exploration and learning that she so well valued.

Family and friends may pay respects at Bryce Funeral Home, Inc. 276 Pawling Ave, Troy on Tuesday July 21, 2015 from 4-7pm. A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, July 22, 2015 at the Bush Memorial Hall of Russell Sage College, 55 1st Street, Troy, NY at 10:30am.

In lieu of flowers, Margaret would have liked donations to be made to the St. Peter’s ALS Regional Center, 19 Warehouse Row, Albany, NY 12205 or an ALS charity of your choice.